Are Chiropractic Adjustments Good For Pregnant Women?

We are asked almost daily, “Are Chiropractic Adjustments Good For Pregnant Women?” Pregnancy is a life-changing event that brings joy, excitement, and many “aches and pains.” As an expectant mother, it’s natural to seek ways to maintain your health and well-being throughout this incredible time. One avenue worth considering is chiropractic care. We will explain how often to visit a chiropractor during pregnancy and list some of the many benefits, safety considerations, and optimal frequency for chiropractic visits.

How Does Chiropractic Help During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy places many unique demands on a woman’s body. There are changes in weight distribution, hormonal shifts, and postural changes. These changes can lead to back and neck pain, general discomfort, and musculoskeletal imbalances. Chiropractic is a non-invasive and drug-free approach that can offer numerous benefits, including:

Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, and other discomforts commonly experienced during pregnancy.

Improved Pelvic Alignment: Proper pelvic alignment can enhance the baby’s positioning and facilitate an easier labor and delivery process.

Enhanced Nervous System Function: Chiropractic care promotes optimal nervous system function, which benefits both the mother and the developing baby.

Improved Overall Wellness: By improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing blood circulation, chiropractic care can support the body’s overall health and well-being.

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

Integrative Chiropractor care during pregnancy is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced chiropractor. However, discussing your pregnancy with your healthcare provider and seeking a chiropractor with specialized training in prenatal care is crucial. Some safety considerations to keep in mind include:

Gentle Techniques: Chiropractors skilled in prenatal care utilize gentle, modified techniques to ensure the mother and baby’s safety and comfort.

Adjustments for Specific Trimesters: Chiropractic adjustments may vary depending on the pregnancy stage to accommodate the body’s changing needs.

How Often Should You See A Chiropractor When You’re Pregnant?

The ideal frequency of chiropractic visits during pregnancy varies according to each mother’s specific needs and the recommendation of your chiropractor. A good question is when are Chiropractic adjustments good for pregnant women? Here are some general guidelines:

Early Pregnancy: During the first trimester, the emphasis is typically on addressing any existing musculoskeletal issues, assessing pelvic alignment, and providing education on proper posture and exercise.

• Frequency: One to two visits per month or as needed.

Second Trimester: Regular chiropractic care can help manage discomfort and ensure optimal alignment as your body adapts to the pregnancy.

• Frequency: Once every two to three weeks.

Third Trimester: With the increased strain on the body and anticipation of labor, chiropractic care can focus on maintaining pelvic alignment and preparing the body for delivery.

• Frequency: Once a week or every two weeks, depending on individual needs.

It’s important to note that these are general recommendations, and individual circumstances may vary. Regular communication with your chiropractor and healthcare provider ensures personalized care throughout your pregnancy.

Other Considerations for Optimal Prenatal Well-being

In addition to chiropractic care, some other helpful treatments and therapies can support your overall well-being during pregnancy:

Exercise: Engage in safe and gentle exercises recommended by your healthcare provider, such as prenatal yoga or swimming, to strengthen your muscles and promote flexibility.

Proper Nutrition: Follow a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your own health and the healthy development of your baby.

Posture Awareness: Maintain good posture, use ergonomic supports, and avoid sitting or standing in one position for prolonged periods.

Rest and Relaxation: Ensure you get enough rest and incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing exercises (e.g., “Box Breathing”) to manage stress levels. During pregnancy, women’s bodies undergo many changes to support the developing baby.

One significant change is the release of the hormone Relaxin. This vital hormone “relaxes” joints, ligaments, and tendons to help ease labor and delivery. Unfortunately, the tissues affected by Relaxin can sometimes become so “loose” that they can allow too much motion, become structurally unstable, and actually cause pain.

Other causes of Spinal Misalignment During Pregnancy

Other factors from pregnancy that can cause spinal misalignment and pain during pregnancy:

• Pregnant women typically carry an additional 25 to 30 pounds by the time they reach their due date. This increase in weight results in altered spinal biomechanics.
• Because of the developing fetus and weight changes, the abdominal muscles can weaken.
• The curve in the lower back (called a “lordosis”) is increased, further changing spinal biomechanics.

Chiropractic care helps maintain proper spinal function despite all of these changes. This helps to not only relieve pain but can even help with the delivery process itself. In fact, many midwives and obstetricians will refer their expectant mothers out for integrative chiropractic care. If the baby is malpositioned, e.g., laying sideways, breech, or if the baby is facing forward with their back positioned along the mother’s back. Many women find that the adjustments not only help with the pains associated with pregnancy but can also help improve sleep and relieve neck pain and headaches.

Chiropractic Relieves Pain

Chiropractic care improves spinal alignment, relieves muscle spasms, and increases joint mobility, improving pelvic region function and stability. Many expectant mothers report decreased pain and improved sleep after receiving chiropractic care.  

Chiropractic Can Help Relieve “Morning Sickness”

Maintaining proper spinal biomechanics allows the nervous system to function with our interference. Spinal nerves are essentially made from the same tissue as brain tissue. This makes it the most sensitive tissue in the body. It takes just 5 – 10 mm of pressure (the weight of a dime) to alter nerve function. This nerve function change can cause many health problems, including nausea or “Morning Sickness.”

Chiropractic Care Can Shorten Labor

Research shows that pregnant women under chiropractic care experience 25% – 31% shorter labor times. Improving the mobility of the pelvis may allow the baby to pass through the birth canal more easily.  

Chiropractic Can Reduce Postpartum Pain

Many new mothers continue with chiropractic care after their baby arrives. Caring for a newborn creates its own set of “aches and pains,” from breastfeeding to carrying a newborn and all of the required strollers, baby bags, and car seats. The doctors of Chiropractic at Integrative Health and Rehabilitation frequently help new mothers with back and neck pain from the demands of caring for a newborn. An integrative Chiropractor provides care that is safe for most pregnancies unless you have vaginal bleeding for unknown reasons, preeclampsia, or are at risk of premature labor. Our integrative Chiropractor, Dr. Doran, can also provide very effective Acupuncture treatment for pregnant women experiencing pain, morning, sickness, and many other pregnancy related problems.

So, Are Chiropractic Adjustments Good For Pregnant Women?

Chiropractic care is a vital addition to any expectant mother’s prenatal care plan. Our Denver Chiropractor will provide pain relief, optimize spinal alignment, and support expectant mothers’ overall health during pregnancy. By consulting with your healthcare provider and an experienced chiropractor, you can determine the optimal frequency of visits tailored to your needs. Remember to communicate openly, follow expert advice, and enjoy the journey toward motherhood with confidence and comfort.